Mass public transit is a green, environmentally friendly mode of transportation on its own, and now Dutch firm Mecanoo Architecten is taking that concept to the extreme with a literally green train station. Like Grand Central or Tokyo Station, Kaohsiung Station will be the hub of the Taiwanese underground -- but, above ground, it will be lush with a verdant garden and park system.
The complete project consists of three layers: at bottom, the train station will carry more than 40,000 passengers daily. Above that is a sleek, open plaza with a skylight and wrap-around windows to maximize natural light access. Finally, on top will be the open air garden which will function as both a park and bicycle path.
The green train station will occupy 8.5 hectares within central Kaohsiung.
Botanical Train Stations
The Kaohsiung Train Station in Taiwan is Covered by a Lush Garden
Trend Themes
1. Green Train Stations - The concept of transforming train stations into lush gardens and parks presents an opportunity for sustainable and eco-friendly urban infrastructure development.
2. Multifunctional Transit Hubs - Designing train stations as multifunctional spaces that incorporate open plazas, skylights, and parks can revolutionize the way people interact with transportation, creating vibrant and community-centric urban environments.
3. Integration of Nature and Infrastructure - The integration of green spaces, such as gardens and bike paths, within transportation infrastructure, offers an innovative approach to connect people with nature and promote well-being.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Urban Planning - The architecture and urban planning industry can explore designing green train stations and integrating nature into infrastructure to create sustainable and visually appealing spaces.
2. Transportation and Logistics - The transportation and logistics industry can invest in infrastructure projects that prioritize the development of green train stations to offer environmentally friendly and attractive transit options.
3. Sustainable Tourism and Recreation - The sustainable tourism and recreation industry can leverage green train stations as unique attractions that combine transportation, nature, and recreational spaces, attracting eco-conscious travelers and locals alike.